Kura Sushi USA Reports Strong Q1 2025 Financial Performance

Overview of Kura Sushi USA's Fiscal First Quarter 2025

Kura Sushi USA, Inc. (NASDAQ: KRUS), the innovative technology-enabled Japanese restaurant brand, has revealed its financial results for the fiscal first quarter that concluded on November 30, 2024. The company is pleased to report significant strides in key financial metrics, which demonstrate its ongoing resilient growth trajectory.

Key Highlights of the Financial Performance

During the fiscal first quarter of 2025, Kura Sushi achieved total sales of $64.5 million, a commendable increase from $51.5 million in the same quarter of the previous year. This increase in sales marks a positive shift in comparable restaurant sales, which rose by 1.8% year-over-year.

Operating Loss and Income Performance

In terms of profitability, the company recorded an operating loss of $1.5 million, an improvement compared to the loss of $2.8 million experienced in the first quarter of 2024. The net loss for the quarter stood at $1.0 million, or $(0.08) per diluted share, which is a significant reduction from a net loss of $2.0 million, or $(0.18) per diluted share, in the prior year quarter.

Restaurant-Level Operational Success

Kura Sushi's restaurant-level operating profit for the quarter was reported at $11.7 million, making up 18.2% of total sales, showcasing effective operational management. Moreover, Kura Sushi achieved adjusted EBITDA of $3.6 million, reflecting a robust enhancement from $1.8 million in the previous year.

Expansion and Growth Strategy

Continuing its expansion efforts, Kura Sushi opened six new restaurants in various locations, contributing to its growing footprint in the U.S. market. This successful strategy aligns with the company’s outlook of opening 14 new restaurants throughout the fiscal year and maintaining a unit growth rate exceeding 20%. Kura Sushi aims to invest approximately $2.5 million on average for capital expenditures per new restaurant.

Community Engagement and Customer Satisfaction

Kura Sushi remains committed to providing an exceptional dining experience through its unique revolving sushi service model. The company’s strong emphasis on customer satisfaction has translated into increased loyal patronage, which has been critical in boosting sales and operational metrics.

Financial Guidance for Fiscal Year 2025

The company supports its annual guidance, projecting total sales between $275 million and $279 million while maintaining its advice on the percentage of general and administrative expenses relative to sales at about 13.5%. This structured approach underlines Kura Sushi's commitment to strategic growth while focusing on cost efficiency.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Kura Sushi CEO, Hajime Uba, expressed optimism about the company’s trajectory. He noted, “Our fiscal year has begun on a high note, and we are encouraged to observe our comparable restaurant sales returning to positive figures. Our recent openings have exceeded projections and poised Kura Sushi for an exciting year ahead.” This optimistic outlook is complemented by the company’s proactive measures to control costs and enhance profitability.

Upcoming Conference Call Information

Investors and interested parties are invited to join a conference call regarding Kura Sushi’s financial results, scheduled for later today. The call will feature insights from key executives including Hajime Uba, President and CEO, and Jeff Uttz, CFO.

About Kura Sushi USA, Inc.

Kura Sushi stands as a pioneer in the technology-enabled dining industry, boasting 70 restaurants across 20 states along with Washington D.C. The company prides itself on delivering an authentic Japanese dining experience leveraging its innovative revolving sushi model. Established in 2008 as a subsidiary of Kura Sushi, Inc., which has an extensive background of over 45 years and more than 650 locations globally, Kura Sushi USA continues to innovate and expand its footprint.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the total sales for Kura Sushi in Q1 2025?

Total sales for Kura Sushi in Q1 2025 were $64.5 million.

How did Kura Sushi's net loss compare to the previous year?

The net loss for Q1 2025 was $1.0 million, a decrease compared to a net loss of $2.0 million in Q1 2024.

What is Kura Sushi's plan for new restaurant openings in 2025?

Kura Sushi plans to open 14 new restaurants in fiscal year 2025.

What was the operating loss for Kura Sushi in the latest quarter?

The company reported an operating loss of $1.5 million in the first quarter of 2025.

How much did Kura Sushi achieve in adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2025?

Kura Sushi achieved adjusted EBITDA of $3.6 million in Q1 2025, up from $1.8 million in the same quarter of the prior year.

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